[Songs to Listen to in December] J-POP and Christmas Songs that Feel Like Winter [2026]

Winter BenchNEW!Shido

SID “Fuyu no Bench” Music Video

SID is a rock band that continues to captivate fans with emotionally rich vocals and a diverse musical palette, remaining highly active even beyond their 20th anniversary.

Their 10th major-label single, released in December 2011, is a track known for heightening anticipation for the album M&W.

The catchy melody composed by drummer YUYA pairs exquisitely with Mao’s warm lyrics set on a winter morning.

At the time of release, actor Riki Takeuchi appeared in a commercial, which also drew attention for its unique bench-press scene.

Even in the harsh cold season, this work conveys the preciousness of time spent with someone important.

It’s a heart-lifting love song perfect for listening on the way to a winter date or when you want to get hyped for an event.

Cold NightHANA

Cold Night

HANA’s “Cold Night” lets you feel a fierce strength—keeping an inner flame burning even while being battered by the cold night wind.

It’s a message song packed with resolve: even while carrying anxieties and loneliness that keep you from fully believing in yourself, you still take a step toward your dream.

Released as a single in January 2026, the track was chosen as the opening theme for season 2 of the TV anime Medalist, which depicts the world of figure skating.

Give it a listen on nights when you wish to change your reality or when you need to rally yourself.

The Christmas loner cancel crowd!AMPTAKxCOLORS

[MV] Kribocchi Cancel Community! / AMPTAKxCOLORS [Amputack]

AMPTAKxCOLORS is a six-member vocal group active on YouTube and streaming platforms.

Released in December 2024, this work is a Christmas song written, composed, and arranged by Kiichi Tsurusaki.

The confession scene that opens with a cheerful “Merry Christmas,” along with the fantastical imagery of riding a reindeer through the night sky, is utterly charming.

Its catchy chorus and mix of English phrases heighten a pop, romantic Christmas mood.

The music video, featuring red-and-white Santa outfits, is dazzling, and the song is sure to encourage anyone hoping to spend Christmas with someone they love.

Christmas ringAKB48

Kurisumasu Ringu

In contrast to the dazzling cityscape, this is a grown-up Christmas song suffused with a touch of wistfulness.

Performed as a unit song in the AKB48 theater show “Koko Kara da,” which opened in December 2024, it was finally released as the long-awaited studio version on the December 2025 album “Koko Kara da Performance Album (Studio Recordings Collection).” Rather than a lively party tune, this piece delicately portrays the memories and feelings of love that resurface in quiet moments against the backdrop of city neon and fir trees.

The scenes Yasushi Akimoto paints highlight the loneliness that intensifies precisely because of the festive season.

It’s a perfect listen for a silent night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, or when you wish to reflect on cherished memories.

Christmas wishesSnow Man

Snow Man「Christmas wishes」Rec Ver.

A heartwarming Christmas number that sings of the happiness of spending a special winter day with someone you love.

As Snow Man’s first Christmas song, it’s included as a coupling track on their fifth single, “Secret Touch.” Bright pop sounds are embellished with an elegant saxophone solo, infusing the piece with party-like splendor and a celebratory spirit.

The lyrics weave in scenes of starlight pouring down, sparkling illuminations, and gently falling snow, warmly expressing gratitude and wishes for a beloved person.

This uplifting, feel-good track is perfect as background music for a Christmas party or an illumination date.

4 SEASONSXG

XG – 4 SEASONS (Official Music Video)

A work whose gentle acoustic sound resonates in the heart, as if melting into the clear winter air.

Created by the globally active XG, this track was released digitally in December 2025 as a lead single from their first full album, “THE CORE,” set for release in January 2026.

It’s a ballad sung by CHISA, HINATA, and JURIA, with lyrics that layer unspoken emotions onto the shifting of the seasons—both bittersweet and warm.

Their delicate vocals bring a soothing comfort that spreads slowly, like warmth seeping into a chilled body.

escortYuuma

Yuma “Escort” Official Music Video

Yuma, a singer who also works as a member of the YouTube creator group Comdot and has drawn attention for his vocal ability and unpretentious choice of words.

Released in December 2025, “Escort” portrays a clumsy yet warm-hearted resolve to gently lead a loved one—just for today—amid scenes that evoke winter’s chill and plumes of white breath.

From casual conversations in a cafeteria to moments playing in the snow, it tenderly captures the cherished sense of distance between two people in everyday life.

Be sure to give this winter love song a listen.